cattleya in volcanic rock

This is a discussion on cattleya in volcanic rock within the Cattleya Information forums, part of the Frequently Asked Questions category; Hi Everyone...Just wondering if any of you have re-potted a cattleya in volcanic rock. Please ...

I grow most of my Catts in lava rock. You have to be careful about salt build up, so they need to be rinsed with clean water occasionally. I have heard some people have trouble with over watering but I haven't had that problem. So if your aren't going to be shipping your catts (lava rock is weighty) try it.

Betty, we have used small lava rock to aid in drainage in our cattleyas, but always include our bark mix to help hold a bit of moisture. Here in this part of the states it gets very hot and though catts like to dry out between watering, I like to make sure they hold a bit of moisture after watering.

Hey, a question for you, Betty. Why the red thumbs down icon for this post? Did you already try lava rock and not like it?

Hi Bruce, I DID re-pot a very large Catt. yesterday. The whole thing is in volcanic rock...1/2 to 1 inch bits & pieces. And yes, I do worry about it getting enough moisture, but I'll be keeping a very close eye on it. At the moment, it has very fat bulbs beneath the leaves. ( lots of food ) If these start to shrivel, I will take note, & perhaps change the media. As far as a red thumbs down, I don't remember putting that. Maybe my mistake? Don't know. I appreciate your input, Bruce. I'm sure there will be an adjustment period for this particular orchid. Thanks much, Betty

Last edited by espranch; May 25th, 2010 at 09:53 AM.
Reason: wrong spelling for "adjustment..."

I've been moving all the catt types over to lava rock except for the ones that have been mounted on tree fern. I've added a little chopped tree fern to the LR but that is it. I have abundant root growth at this time.
I tend to overwater because of the vandas. Most of the species catts are non-forgiving of it.

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